Download Zeagle Buoyancy Compensator Owner`s manual

Buoyancy Compensator
Owner’s Manual
Introduction
Thanks for Choosing Zeagle!
We value your decision to invest in a Zeagle Buoyancy Control
System. Please have your authorized Zeagle Dealer familiarize you with
the operation and care of your new Zeagle Buoyancy Compensator*
(BC) and go over your Owner’s Manual with you. Have your Dealer sign
the appropriate line on the service record at the end of this manual, after
he has performed this service. Before you use your BC for the first time,
be sure your Dealer has performed the Dealer prep check list. Please
save and refer to this Owner’s Manual from time to time to enable you to
fully understand and benefit from this fine product.
SCUBA Diving is an extremely enjoyable pastime when done
with proper training, good equipment, and knowledge of both your
equipment and your diving environment. This Zeagle Buoyancy
Control System is intended for use only by individuals practicing
safe diving principles.
*Buoyancy Compensator (BC) and Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
are synonymous for the same piece of SCUBA diving equipment.
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Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................i
Warranty Information and Safety Warnings .......................2
General Information and Specifications ...............................3
Function of the Zeagle System............................................6
Fitting and Assembly .........................................................8
Double Tank Mounting Options .........................................12
Pre-dive Assembly and Inspection...................................14
Re-Threading the RipcordTM System .............................17
Donning Procedures........................................................21
Predive Check ...............................................................22
Diving with you Zeagle BCD ................................................ 23
Emergency procedures ......................................................24
Postdive BC Cleaning and Flushing .........................26
Available BCD Accessories.................................................28
Service Record ...................................................................30
1
Warranty Information
Owner’s Responsibilities
• Zeagle Systems, Inc. requires that the end user of this system be
certified by a nationally or internationally recognized SCUBA certification agency and adequately trained in its use by a certified SCUBA
instructor with thorough knowledge and experience in the use of
Zeagle Systems, Inc. equipment.
• An annual inspection performed by an authorized Zeagle Dealer is
required for the safe operation of this system.
• Your Zeagle BC is NOT a personal flotation device and should
not be used as a life jacket. The BC does NOT guarantee a
heads up position of the wearer at the surface.
• All emergency procedures should be practiced periodically in shallow water (10 feet or 3 m) to maintain preparedness in the event an
actual emergency should occur.
• The owner is ultimately responsible for completing the Warranty
Registration by filling out the form included with the BCD and mailing
it to Zeagle Systems, Inc., or by going to the Product Registration
page at www.zeagle.com. One of these methods must be completed
within 30 days of purchase.
• For assistance with preparation, questions or service, contact your
local authorized Zeagle Dealer or Zeagle Systems, Inc.
LIMITED LIFETIME GUARANTEE TO THE
ORIGINAL OWNER
Your BC is guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship. This guarantee does not cover damages from accident,
abuse, neglect, alterations, improper usage, normal wear & tear or
failure to provide reasonable care. To validate your warranty you
must fill out and return your warranty registration by regular mail
or e-mail, within 30 days of purchase. All warranty claims will be
handled through Zeagle, or an authorized Zeagle Dealer.
2
General Information and Specifications
This Buoyancy Compensator's Owner's Manual contains
important safety, maintenance, and operation information.
Read this manual thoroughly before diving.
Important information on the assembly, operation, and maintenance of your BC is designated throughout this manual with the
"IMPORTANT" graphic and the symbol shown above.
This owner's manual also uses the following "WARNING"
graphic and symbol to designate that special attention needs to
be given to the manual, otherwise, a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in injury or death.
SCUBA diving is an adventuresome activity and some risks
are involved. Please be sure that you and your dive partner
have current certifications and follow all of the recommendations of your certifying agency and that all equipment
is used and maintained according to the manufacturer’s
recommendations. Failure to follow these guidelines can
result in serious injury or death.
3
General Information & Specifications
SCUBA Cylinder Selection and Configuration
Your over-all buoyancy depends on a combination of the buoyancy of all
your diving equipment added to your own body's buoyancy. The Zeagle
System is designed to work with a variety of tank sizes and
configurations.
Failure to comply with the following information may result in an improper buoyancy configuration. You must maintain neutral buoyancy
while diving to prevent injury or death.
The maximum single and double cylinder size specifications (in liters) for
the BC is found on a tank pictogram on the warning label. This label is
found on the BC, inside the vest. If the double cylinder pictogram has a
"XX" in it, then the BC has been designed for single cylinder use only. If
the single and double cylinder pictograms have numbers in them, then
the BC has been designed for either single or double cylinder use. The
number in the pictogram indicates the largest cylinder size recommended, in liters.
Cylinder dimensions and capacity are two quantities
which are important to understand when configuring
your equipment. Cylinder dimensions are the actual,
outside dimensions of a SCUBA cylinder (also called
the tank). Zeagle BC's are designed specifically for
XX
19
SCUBA cylinders which have a maximum diameter
of 8 in (20.3 cm) and maximum height of 31 in (78.7
MAX liters
cm). Consult your local authorized Zeagle Dealer if
Tank Pictogram you have any questions regarding cylinder
dimensions.
Cylinder capacity is the volume of the SCUBA cylinder. When expressed in cubic feet, the volume is given for compressed gas. When
expressed in liters, the volume is given for the actual volume of the
cylinder based on the interior dimensions of the cylinder (water
capacity). Zeagle Systems, Inc. maximum recommended cylinder
capacity is 120 ft3 (19 liters). Once again, if you have a question,
consult your local authorized Zeagle Dealer.
4
General Information and Specifications
Surface Buoyancy of BC's
Total
prEN1809
BUOYANCY
Your BC's buoyancy, has been rated by Zeagle Systems, Inc. Buoyancy
figures were measured in fresh water at sea level, and were rounded
down to the nearest pound. For buoyancies listed in the metric system,
buoyancy is measured in multiples of 10 Newtons, then rounded down to
the next lowest multiple.
The buoyancy of your BC is printed on a label, located on the bladder
assembly, as shown on page 8. A typical label for a BC will look like the
example below. This particular label indicates that the bladder assembly
is rated at 19 kg (44 lbs) buoyancy.
44 lbs / 19 kg
180 N
(rounded down to nearest 10 N)
Operating Temperature Range
Table 1.0
Air
-4o to +122o F
-20o to +50o C
Water
+28o to +104o F
- 2o to +40o C
Special Instruction in cold water diving methods, and the specific
use of this product is required prior to cold water diving (temperatures below 10o C / 50o F). This instruction is beyond the scope of
this Owner's Manual. Diving without this instruction could result in
injury or death. Consult your SCUBA instructor for this instruction
prior to using this product in cold water.
Shelf Life
The shelf life for a new, unused BC when deflated and stored in a dry
place at room temperature, with no exposure to ultraviolet (UV), light is
seven years. Refer to page 24 for Storage and Post Dive BC Cleaning
information.
5
Function of the Zeagle System
The Zeagle Buoyancy Control System
The function of the Zeagle buoyancy control system is to add to your diving
enjoyment. It is designed to provide you with a comfortable way of “wearing”
your SCUBA system, a resting platform while on the surface, and an easy
means of controlling your buoyancy while diving.
Vest
The vest portion of the system should fit so that it wraps partially around
the front of the diver. See the Illustration on page 8. You should be able to
tighten the waist strap so that the vest fits quite snugly around the waist, in
order to prevent the BC from shifting during the dive. If you can draw the two
sides of the vest together and the fit is still not snug, you need a smaller size
vest. If the Vest is uncomfortably tight when the fully extended strap is fastened, you need at larger vest. The ZENA lady's BCD is different from other
models, in that the vest portion is fastened to the body of the BCD with two
adjustable straps and is closed by a front zipper. The ZENA is worn so that
the top strap is at the narrowest part of the waist, above the hips.
Side Panels (Cummerbund)
The side panels should fit around the waist (top of the hip) NOT over your
rib cage or diaphragm, with at least a four inch overlap on the touch fastener
(Velcro) closure. The side panels are attached using six (6) plastic screw
fasteners, and can be adjusted by moving the side panels to a different set
of grommets on the vest section. See the Illustration on page 9. It is imperative that the BC not be worn too high on the body as this will create an
undesirably high center of gravity and could restrict the ability of your diaphragm to move freely, resulting in discomfort or shortness of breath. Side
Panel Extenders are available.
Shoulders
Length of the shoulder strap depends on personal comfort and the length of
your torso. Take into consideration different suits you may be wearing with
the system, and be sure to allow enough length so the pack may be worn
low as described above. The sternum strap should be just above the breast
line as shown on page 8. You should easily be able to reach the quick release buckles. The sternum straps have high and low attachment loops. The
BCD leaves the factory with the sternum straps attached to the higher loops.
If this position puts the strap too close to the neck or the strap is covering a
Dry Suit inflator, then the strap can be moved to the lower attachment points.
6
Function of the Zeagle System
Bladder Assembly
The bladder assembly attaches to the vest section via four stainless steel
slotted fasteners sewn to the inner edge of the bladder assembly. Each of
these slotted fasteners slides over the two Single-Tank Bands. This fastens
the Bladder to the Tank Bands. If the BC is to be used with double tanks,
then the Single Tank Bands are removed and the optional Double Tank
Straps (p/n 7019T) slide through the webbing slots at the back of the vest
just as the removed Single Tank Bands did (see cylinder band illustration
on pages 10 thru 13). The stamped metal ends of the straps are threaded
through the eye of the metal tabs on the Bladder Cover (see illustration
below). There are two plastic buckles on the Bladder Cover Winglets, which
clip over the weight pockets to hold the buoyancy forward. Do not dive with
the two forward small side release buckles detached! The shoulder straps
should pass through the collar at the top of the bladder assembly.
Do NOT dive with the two winglet side release buckles detached!
The Tank Bands and the optional double
tank straps go through the same backplate webbing slots.
Shoulder strap goes
through the collar
Surface Buoyancy
Label Location
Optional double-tank Straps are
required IF Double Tanks are
mounted to the BC.
p/n 7281M (2 required)
The Winglet Side Release Buckles
must be attached to the vest.
7
Fitting and Assembly
Proper Fit
The Zeagle Personal Fit System allows the diver to size each component of
the buoyancy system independently, for a true custom fit. For proper
performance, please be sure that your system fits as described below. Put
the BC on (before attaching it to a SCUBA cylinder) and adjust the shoulders
and waist as follows.
1. Loosen the shoulder straps before
donning. Put it on like you would a
jacket. If your system is equipped with
cummerbund side panels, stretch the
elastic by extending each side panel as
far as possible before wrapping it around
you and fastening the Velcro.
2. The system should be worn low with
the bottom of the vest at the top of your
hips. Once the cummerbund side panels
are secure, fasten the waist strap and
tighten it snugly.
8
3. Fasten the sternum strap. It should
be just above the breast line. If you
are wearing a dry suit, be sure that the
sternum strap does not obstruct the
drysuit inflator hose or valve. There are
two sets of loops for the sternum strap.
If the sternum strap is too high, the strap
can be moved to the lower loops.
4. Adjust the shoulder straps.
NEVER breathe from the bladder assembly. The bladder assembly was not designed as an auxiliary air source and may
contain harmful contaminants, which if inhaled, may cause
injury or death.
Fitting and Assembly
Adjusting the Side Panels
1. Using two coins, unscrew the plastic barrel-screw fasteners.
2. Move the side panel to different set of grommets on vest and reinstall.
3. Note that one extra plastic barrel-screw is installed in an unused
grommet hole when the BCD leaves the factory. This extra screw can be
used if one is lost.
9
Fitting and Assembly
Threading The Standard Single Cylinder System
Non-Slip Plate
Illustration “A”
(Single Cylinder Band Assembly)
Illustration “B”
(Standard System Only)
Note: Tank bands expand and lengthen when wet. For this reason, you will get a tighter fit if you
make your initial adjustments with tank bands that have been wet for at least 20 minutes.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
10
Thread the lower cylinder band through the non-slip plate and then under the bottom center
backplate straps as shown in Illustration “A.”
Thread the upper cylinder band under the top center backplate straps on the BC as shown
in "A".
After threading the bands through the BC, thread the bands through the buckle as per
illustration “B”.
Threading instructions are also embossed on the side of the plastic buckle.
After Looping the webbing through final slot in the buckle, check to be sure that your
cylinder is lined vertically on the BC. “Cam” the buckle over for extra tension.
Lock the buckle by engaging the Velcro material on the tank band.
Fitting and Assembly
Threading the Standard & Quick Release
System on a Twin Cylinder Back Plate
Standard System
Optional Quick Release System
Optional Band Extension
•
•
•
Back Plate Grommets
An alternate method of attaching twin cylinders with steel bands is by bolting
through the back plate grommets.
Optional band extension used only with quick release band for twin cylinder use.
Extension strap should be adjusted at cylinder buckle hook end for proper cylinder
size.
There are only minor differences on a twin cylinder model. The rubber
“non-slip” plate should be completely installed on the bottom band opposite
the touch fastener (Velcro) material on the band, before inserting the band
under the webbing on the pack. The bands go under the vertical webbing on
the back plate. If your system has only two pieces of vertical webbing, it is
not a twin cylinder model and should not be used with twin cylinders. If you
are setting up a double pack for single cylinders, please note that the single
size cylinder bands only go under the center 4 inches (10.2 cm) of vertical
webbing on the back plate and the non-slip plate is installed as illustrated on
pages 10 and 12.
11
Quick Release fully closed
Mounting Optional Backplate for use with Double Tanks
Backplate Available in: Black Anodized Aluminum p/n 519-BP01A
Stainless Steel p/n 519-BP01S
Titanium p/n 519-BP01T
For Ranger, Ranger LTD, Tech
10, 911 and SAR BCDs. May
require modification of built-in
Lumbar Pads.
12
For Ranger, Ranger
LTD, Tech 10, 911
and SAR BCDs.
Optional Double Tank Bands and Mounting Systems
13
Pre-dive Assembly and Inspection
Adjust the BC so that it does not restrict your breathing. Restriction of normal
breathing while wearing your BC could result in injury or death. Before each dive,
check all bands, straps, clips, and/or waist panels for proper adjustment.
Over Pressure Valve (OPV)
The over pressure / dump valve is typically located on the lower front of the
bladder assembly. Some models have two OP Valves. As its name implies,
the OP Valve prevents over inflation of the bladder. The valve automatically
releases air when the internal bladder pressure exceeds the valve's spring
pressure. The valve will automatically close when the internal bladder
pressure becomes less than the valve's spring pressure. This valve may also
be used to "dump" air when you are diving, by pulling the knob / string that
is attached to the valve. The OP Valve should be inspected before every
dive for proper operation.
Remote Exhaust Valve (RE Valve)
Your BC may be equipped with a remote exhaust valve. If it is, it is located
on the upper left, just behind the shoulder, on the bladder assembly. The RE
Valve allows you to "dump" or exhaust air manually as you adjust for neutral
buoyancy. The RE Valve operates by simply pulling on the power inflator
mechanism and corrugated rubber hose.
The RE Valve should be inspected before every dive for proper
operation. Also, inspect that both threaded caps on the RE Valve, are
tightened securely. The exhaust cap must be tightened a minimum 1 1/2
turns (3/8 inch) after it first contacts the body. The RE Valve was designed
to be serviced periodically. Without proper tightening of these caps, they
may loosen over time and be lost.
14
Pre-dive Assembly and Inspection
Bx Power Inflator/ Oral Inflator Mechanism
Your BC will also be equipped with a power inflator/oral inflator
mechanism. This unit consists of a Bx Coupler, Oral Valve Mouthpiece, Oral
Valve Button, and Pneumatic Inflation Valve (PIV) and connects directly to
the RE Valve via a steel cable (inside the corrugated hose). The PIV
operates over a pressure range of 6.5-13.8 bar (95-200 psi). To inflate the
BC using the PIV, attach a low pressure hose to the quick disconnect (QD)
fitting and depress the PIV button. To inflate the BC using the oral inflator,
depress the Oral Valve Dump Button and breathe into the Oral Valve
Mouthpiece.
CHECK ALL MECHANISMS BEFORE EVERY DIVE FOR
PROPER OPERATION AND LEAKS.
Before diving, make sure that the Bx Coupler is hand tightened onto
the Power Inflator to avoid water getting into the BC.
Weight System Inspection
Check to see that weight release system is secure.
Ripcord ™ release system - check bottom of weight pockets to be sure they
are held closed by the ripcord. If the Ripcord has been pulled, re-thread the
system. (Refer to the re-threading section on following page).
15
Pre-dive Assembly and Inspection
Check to see that the weight release system is secure.
Note: There are several types of weight systems available on Zeagle
BCs. Compare your BC with the following pictures to determine which
type of weight release system you have. When you see your BC’s
weight system, follow the directions shown.
Trim Weight™ Velcro Touch Fastener
System - Check to see that the touch
fastener material flap on the bottom and
sides of each weight pocket completely
overlaps and is secure.
Trim Weight™
Check to see that weight release system is secure.
E-Z Lock™- With weights
properly loaded into removable pouch (see page 20),
insert into pocket as shown.
Make sure the plastic release buckle is completely
fastened with no fabric
pinched in the buckle.
16
Re-threading The RipcordTM System
If the Ripcord is not completely secure, re-thread using the following
procedure.
Nylon Loops
Cord
Cord
•
•
•
•
Return the Ripcord handle to the secure position.
Pull the cord through for the right side weight pocket.
Start with the loop closest to the Ripcord handle.
Each white nylon loop is threaded through three grommets. The cord is then threaded through the end of the white loop.
• Thread the cord under the webbing that is between the grommets.
• Repeat for all nylon loops.
• Finish by pushing the cord between the pocket and the vest.
• Repeat on the opposite pocket.
• After rethreading is complete be sure to check that Ripcord cable moves
...freely through the whip loops and that nothing in hindering the cable.
• Repeat on the opposite pocket.
17
Pre-dive Assembly and Inspection
Loading the Zeagle Integrated Weight System:
The following is required for proper BC performance
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
18
Weights can be loaded after the system is donned as shown, or the
weights can be loaded before the system is donned. Considerations
include the amount of weight and the distance to enter the water. Ask
your buddy for help in either case. To load the weight system:
Unfasten the buckles securing the bladder assembly winglets to the side
of the vest to allow easy access to the weight pockets.
Ripcord™ - load the yellow pouch through the RED zippered opening on
the pocket top. Be sure the RED zipper is fully closed after loading.
Pull-Out™- load the pouch through the Velcro Touch Fastener
opening. Close the opening and load the pouch into pocket
according to illustration.
E-Z Lock TM - load the pouch through the Velcro Touch Fastener
opening. Close the opening and load the pouch into pocket
according to illustration.
Refasten the buckles securing the bladder winglets to the side of the
vest.
Be sure to load in the weights in the Ripcord pocket closest to the diver.
The outer zipper pocket is a utility pocket, it is NOT designed for weights.
The outer zipper pocket is NOT releasable with the Ripcord system. The
outer zipper pocket is for carrying other items like gloves, small lights,
mesh catch bag, etc.
The Ripcord weight system is designed to accept block weights, shot
pouches and the recommended Zeagle Zipper weight bags (# 8042- 12
pound and #8043-18 pound capacity each). It is recommended that small
weights of 2 pounds or less are not used loose in the Ripcord systems as
they may fall out the bottom of the pockets.
To load the weights, unzip the weight pockets (with red zipper pull tab)
and insert weights. Do not overfill pockets. Zipper should zip close easily.
Use equal amount of weight in each side of vest to ensure proper balance.
To release the weights pull the red ripcord handle fully to stop.
•
Do not attempt to pull past the ripcord stop. The handle and cable
are not designed to be completely separated from the system. The
stop is designed to prevent you from losing the handle and pull
cable. Pulling too hard past the stopping point may cause damage
to the system.
•
Dropping your weights at depth may cause an uncontrollable assent resulting in possible injury or death.
•
When returning to the boat from a dive you may want to remove the
weight before boarding the boat. In this case, you can unzip the weight
pocket and hand weights to an assistant on boat or place weights on diving platform before climbing onboard.
19
Installing the yellow Weight Pouch into the Ripcord™ Weight System
Pouch
Pocket
E-Z Lock Weight System Assembly Procedure
Pouch
Pocket
Pocket
20
Donning Procedure
Diving equipment is heavy! To avoid injury or fatigue and to become familiar with each other's equipment, have your buddy assist
you! Take this opportunity to be sure your buddy understands how
your weight release works.
Be sure you have read and performed the Proper Fit page in the Fitting and
Assembly section of this manual first.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Open the cylinder band buckles and loosen the bands.
Align the system so that the top of the bladder assembly is even with the
cylinder valve (slightly higher or lower may be required depending on the
diver’s size and the type of tank, but this is a good starting point).
Make sure that the two sets of bands are in vertical alignment with your
tank and not twisted to one side.
Pull the bands snug and close the buckles. Secure the loose end of the
bands on the Velcro touch fastener.
Connect the regulator to the cylinder valve and finish assembling the
system per manufacturer’s instructions.
Be sure you are familiar with the low pressure inflator system on your
Zeagle BC. Inflate the system and check for leakage.
Weights can be installed in the weight pockets before the BC is donned
or after. It may be easier to add your weights after you have the system
on to avoid lifting the tank and weights together. Considerations include
the amount of weight and the distance to enter the water. Ask your buddy
for help in either case.
Loosen the shoulder straps.
Have your buddy balance the system while you put it on like a jacket.
Remember, the system should be worn low with the bottom of the vest at
the top of your hips
Fasten the side panels and/or the waist band. Extend the cummerbund
side panels as far as possible before wrapping them around your body.
Be sure to get the waist tight.
Fasten the sternum strap and adjust it. If you are wearing a drysuit,.
be sure that the sternum strap does not obstruct the drysuit inflator
.hose or valve.
Adjust the shoulder straps.
Fasten the split saddle strap if your system is so equipped.
21
Pre-Dive Check:
Prior to each dive, always check to make certain your BC has no obvious
leaks by inflating the bladder until the over pressure relief valve vents.
Listen for air leaks. If any are found, then service is necessary by an authorized Zeagle technician.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
22
Scuba diving is an adventurous activity and it is inherently dangerous. Even if
you do everything right, some risks are involved. To lessen those risks (and to
make diving more enjoyable) always follow the manufacturer’s recommendation
as to the maintenance of your gear and dive within your abilities.
Abort any dive if any part of your live support system (including regulator,
BC, drysuit, etc.) is not functioning correctly. Have any malfunctioning
problem resolved before beginning your dive. Any parts or areas with excessive wear should be checked out by a qualified technician before diving.
Be familiar with all your gear as wells as your dive buddy’s equipment.
Periodically gear up completely with all the equipment (including air supply cylinder) you will be diving with and test each part of it for proper and unencumbered
function.
Test the power/oral inflator for proper function and check it for leaks.
Inflate the buoyancy compensator fully and check it for leaks.
Over inflate the buoyancy compensator and check for proper re-sealing of the
overpressure valves.
With weight system loaded as it would be for diving, check for easy access to the
release mechanism. Practice removing the weights as if you were returning to
the boat or in an emergency. Making sure the weights drop free from you whether
you are using a weight belt or other integrated weight system.
With a Ripcord type system, when fully geared up, periodically pull the release
handle to the stop and re-thread cable. Be sure nothing is hindering the movement of the cable through the release loops or channel and that nothing is hindering the release of weights from the diving vest.
With your regulator installed on an air cylinder and with the air turned on, check
for leaks and test for proper function.
If you are diving with a full face mask or any other technical gear, be sure you
have received certified training and that you fully understand and are competent
in its proper use and emergency procedures.
Diving with your Zeagle BCD
•
•
•
•
•
•
Your final buoyancy is primarily affected by your body, your thermal suit, your
diving cylinder, and your lead weights. It is adjusted with your BCD. Both too
little and too much lead ballast can be dangerous. To determine the proper
amount of lead ballast weight needed for your system, go (with another diver) to
a shallow safe location with the type (fresh or salt) of water you will be diving in
later. During the test, wear a near empty cylinder of the same size and material
you will be using. With a safety diver present, carefully add or remove weights
from your system until you float vertically at the surface at eye level with a full
breath of air (and a near empty cylinder). The near empty cylinder is important.
Many divers weight themselves for a full cylinder, and then have trouble staying
down later in the dive as the cylinder gains buoyancy.
Start your descent by releasing air slowly either through the power inflator by
holding the exhaust over your head and pushing on the exhaust button or by
pulling gently (approximately 1/2 inch) on the inflator to open the remote exhaust
valve on the shoulder if your system is so equipped. DO NOT USE EXCESSIVE
FORCE AS THIS COULD SERIOUSLY DAMAGE THE SYSTEM. Let out just
enough air to start your descent. As you descend and when you reach your desired depth you will need to add air to your Zeagle BC by pressing on the air inlet
button of your low pressure inflator to attain “neutral” buoyancy.
It may be necessary to adjust the waist during the dive due to the compression
and expansion of your diving suit.
You will need to add air to the BC as you descend and exhaust air from the BC
as you ascend, to maintain neutral buoyancy throughout your dive.
When you begin your ascent at the termination of your dive, you must release air
from your BC either through the exhaust on the inflator or through the remote exhaust. Be sure you are vertical with your left side slightly higher than your right
side to vent the BC. You should release air so as to maintain a rate of ascent of
one foot per second or less. To maintain a safe ascent rate, you must swim to
the surface. Do not use your BCD to pull you to the surface, as this may result in
fast ascents. Control your Ascent Rate!
Inflate your Zeagle BC when you reach the surface to attain a comfortable
degree of buoyancy and lay back against the tank. Do not overinflate the BCD.
23
Emergency Procedures
If you are diving with a buoyant wet or drysuit, be aware that releasing weights at
depth should only be done if absolutely necessary (for example, if your drysuit has
flooded, making you extremely negative). Without weights, it may be very difficult to
control your ascent rate as you near the surface. Weight release at depth should only
be done according to the standards set by your certification agency.
Emergency Weight Release
Pull
Ripcord System
E-Z Lock System
Pull
24
Emergency Procedures
Problem Management
Inflator problem
Inflators may fail due to foreign material in the mechanism, damage from impact by
tanks or weights, or other causes. Practice the procedures below (in a safe location
with your buddy) for your safety.
Inflator fails to operate
Check to see that the low pressure hose is properly connected. Orally inflate the
bladder if necessary to establish proper buoyancy.
Inflator valve sticks open
Should the inflator valve stick open, causing an uncontrolled filling of the bladder and/
or excessive leakage of air at the inflator, hold exhaust valve open and over your head
to vent excess air as you disconnect the low pressure hose from the inflator. Abort the
dive.
Exhaust valve or over pressure valve sticks open
If the exhaust valve on the inflator sticks open, hold the inflator in the lowest position
possible, to allow the bladder to hold air from that level up. Abort the dive and attempt
to swim slowly, 1 ft per 2 sec (0.3 m per 2 seconds), or less, to the surface. Should
excessive negative buoyancy be created, your weights may need to be released.
Weight release at depth should only be done according to the standards set by your
certification agency.
Failure to hold air
If for any reason the system should fail to hold an adequate amount of air to provide
necessary buoyancy, abort the dive and attempt to swim slowly, 1 ft per 2 seconds (
.3 m per 2 seconds) or less, to the surface. Should excessive negative buoyancy be
created, your weights may need to be released. Weight release at depth should only
be done according to the standards set by your certification agency.
The above is based on recreational no decompression diving. Decompression divers
must have complete redundant systems to handle all problems underwater.
If at any time abnormal performance or malfunction is experienced, the
system must be serviced by an authorized Zeagle Dealer prior to any
further use.
25
Maintenance
The reliability and correct functioning of your equipment
depends on the care it receives.
Post Dive BC Cleaning:
• Rinse the BCD thoroughly with fresh water after each use.
• Rinse the inside of the bladder using the Bx Coupler. Simply unscrew the
Bx Coupler from the Power Inflator, and screw onto a standard garden
hose.
Bx Coupler
Bx Coupler
Standard Garden Hose
Standard Garden Hose
Turn the water on and super rinse and clean the inner bladder.
• Hang the BCD upside down and allow it to dry while partially inflated.
Drain any residual water through the exhaust hose while the BCD is
hanging upside down.
• Store the BCD partially inflated in a cool dry place.
When screwing on the Bx Coupler to the garden hose,
DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN.
Some water leakage here is normal during rinsing.
Over tightening may cause damage to the coupler.
26
Inspection and Service Interval
Your BCD (including the Inflator) should be inspected and maintained by an
Authorized Zeagle Dealer at least once a year, and more often if you dive
frequently. This is a required action to keep your warranty in effect. There is a
Service Record in the back of this manual for the Dealer to record the service
performed.
- Check that the Bx connection is snug (or hand tight)
before EACH DIVE!
- Periodically check ALL threaded connections such as
. OPV Flanges and Shoulder Dump Cap for tightness.
Installation of New Parts/ Alterations
Use of non-factory parts or accessories, or any change to the product
not specifically authorized by Zeagle Systems, Inc., or performed by an
unauthorized repair facility, may cause improper operation, damage, or
leakage of the BC resulting in a loss of buoyancy control or air holding
capability. This could result in injury or death, plus will void your
warranty. Replace worn or damaged items with approved, factory
supplied or specified parts ONLY.
27
Buoyancy System Accessories
Pony Bottle
Attachment Kit
8029HD
Mounts a pony bottle securely to any Zeagle BC
BC Pocket
(Clip Closure)
8033CC
Tech Utility Pocket
2 zip compartments
8033
28
Yellow Weight Pouches
8042(12-lb)
8043(20-lb)
Strobe/Flashlight
8036
Full Lumbar Pad
7275F
Removable Rear Mounted
Weight System
8051Z
Removable Rear Mounted
Weight System
8052Z
Buoyancy System Accessories
EMT Shears
8134
Line Cutter
5403
Quick Pocket
8033QP
Diver Tool Kits
8135 without slate
8135S with slate
QD Deluxe Signal Tube
730-3001P
Twin bands
519-TB07 for 7.5” tank
519-TB08 for 8” tank
Zeagle BC Knife
5402
Sport Pocket
8033P
Spare Air Pocket
8055L
6 cu. ft. Pony System
750-6206
29
SERVICE RECORD
DATE
SERVICE PERFORMED
SERVICE CENTER
TECHNICIAN #
Owner Orientation:
Dealer Preparation:
Attach the original or a copy of your purchase receipt to
this booklet and store it in a safe place. Your receipt may
be needed for warranty validation if you take your BCD to a
different Zeagle Dealer for service.
Locating Service and Support
The Dealer that sold you your Buoyancy Compensator will be able
to assist you with additional questions regarding product operation,
warranty, and service. Go to www.zeagle.com for dealer locations
near you.
Your Local Zeagle Dealer:
(Dealer to affix stamp here)
30
31
TM
Zeagle Systems,
Inc.
37150 Chancey Road
Zephyrhills, FL 33541
Phone: (813) 782-5568
Fax: (813) 782-5569
www.zeagle.com
Printed in USA
p/n 175-1611
Rev. I
05/2013